Chapter 15



Belinda’s gaze on Carola was filled with complex emotions. She knew that, logically, Carola should despise and loathe her. After all, she was Baker’s illegitimate daughter from an affair…

But Carola had never shown anything but kindness toward her, even when everyone else had turned against her.

Carola had been the only one who had believed Belinda’s innocence regarding the missing necklace.

“Carola,” Belinda said softly, greeting her.

Carola responded with a gentle nod, her eyes scanning Belinda with a mix of concern and motherly affection. “Belinda, how have you been these past three years? You’ve lost a great deal of weight. And your birthmark—what happened to it? It’s gone now.”

Carola was the first person to express concern after Belinda returned home.

Kylee came forward with a smile, linking arms with Carola as she commented, “Indeed, Mom. I hardly recognized Belinda at the Thomas family’s event last night. She has transformed so much. I always said she would look amazing if she lost some weight.”

Kylee had been the one to inform Baker of Belinda’s return from abroad and her striking change.

Looking at Carola, Belinda said, “I underwent a health check-up while I was overseas. The doctor discovered that my previous weight issues stemmed from medications that caused hormone changes. As for my birthmark… it just faded naturally over time.”

During Belinda’s first year abroad, the dark mark on her face had begun fading without explanation. By her second year there, it had completely vanished.

“What do you mean by that? What happened before? Belinda, how could you have been using that kind of medication?” Holley said, her expression one of shock.

“I don’t know,” Belinda replied, shaking her head.

She intended to investigate this matter now that she was back in the country. She wanted to find out whether the medication was a mistake or something more sinister. She also needed to understand the true origins of her birthmark.

Belinda scanned the room, noting the surprised looks on everyone’s faces, but they didn’t reveal any clues for her.

Kylee then said sympathetically, “Belinda, you really have been through a lot.”

She turned to her father, saying, “Dad, it’s time to let the past go.”

“I forgave Belinda long ago. I even told her she could have the necklace if she liked it so much.”

Baker’s response to Kylee was affectionate yet tinged with resignation. “You’re too forgiving, my dear. It only makes it easier for her to take advantage of your kindness.”

Kylee smiled gently and responded, “Belinda and I are sisters. Why shouldn’t I be kind to her?”

Baker exhaled softly and then turned to Belinda. “See how Kylee treats you? Remember how you treated her before? Out of consideration for Kylee, I’ll drop the matter today.”

He gave Belinda a pointed look. “Thank Kylee now! Don’t be ungrateful!”

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